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Monday, March 21, 2011

-Age - most individuals are older than 50-Polyps or inflammatory bowel disease-Family history of colorectal cancer-History of ovarian and breast cancer

Risk Factors You Can Control:

Some factors that raise the risk of colorectal cancer are within your control

-Smoking and drinking alcohol-Being overweight ( excess fat around the waist)-Lack of exercise-Diet high in processed foods, red meat or heavily cooked meats

A diet high in refined foods, alcohol, processed foods and unhealty fats have been linked to increase risk of DISEASE.

Adopt A Healthier Dietary Lifestyle: Prevent cancer with good nutrition

At lease half of all cancers can be prevented through lifestyle choices

Eat All The Colors Of The Rainbow:

Antioxidants have been touted as cancer fighters!

Studies have shown that the benefits of antioxidants reduce the incidences of cancer including other diseases in the body. The prefix "anti" means against in opposition to, or corrective in nature. Oxidants are commonly known as "free radical"

Antioxidants are compounds such as Vitamin A, C and E as well as beta carotene. They inhibit oxidation in the body, they act as scavengers, helping to prevent cell and tissue damage that could lead to cellular damage and disease.

These nutrients are commonly found in fruits and vegetables. Those high in antioxidants have BOLD appealing colors, some include oranges, red peppers, tomatoes, carrots and spinach.

"For adults, it is recommended to get at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity on three - five days of the week, 45-60 minutes is preferable.

Exercise gets your body moving, which helps move the waste in your body. This is because exercise stimulates peristalsis, a wave-like muscular contraction that helps push waste through the colon.

The colon acts as a sewage plant. It recycles the materials your body can use and stores the waste for disposal. The longer waste sits in the colon or rectum, the longer toxic materials have to leach out of the solidifying stool and back into your tissues. Exercise gets your body moving, which helps move the waste in your body."http://www.colorectal-cancer.ca/en/nutrition/nutritional/

Friday, March 18, 2011

Colorectal cancer also referred to colon cancer occurs in the colon or rectum. The colon is the large intestine or large bowel. The rectum is the passageway that connects the colon to the anus.

The majority of colorectal cancers begin as benign growth in the lining of the large bowel wall called polyps. Over time (a number of years) these polyps may grow in size and number. While not every polyp may turn to cancer, experts believe that colorectal cancer typically begins as a small non-cancerous polyp. Approximately two thirds of these cancers are found in the large intestine and one third in the rectum.

Early identification and removal of these growths or polyps is the key to preventing colorectal cancer from developing.During a colonoscopy, if a polyp is large enough the tissue can be identified and removed and sent for biopsy.

One should be aware of the following symptoms:

-lethargy/fatigue

-gas and bloating

-constipation or diarrhea

-bloody stools or narrow stools

-nausea and vomiting

-unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite

Often times, colorectal cancer first develops with minor, if any, symptoms. However, if you are experiencing any symptoms please discuss them with your MD. It is advised to address early symptoms and not to wait till you feel discomfort or pain before seeing your physician.

In spite of its high incidence, in a majority of cases colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable with early detection.

I recently lost my Uncle after a long battle with colon cancer in Dec. 2010. My Aunt, his beloved wife also lost her battle to colon cancer in August 2006.

Ken is a precious friend who has been battling colon cancer since 2004. Alongside his family we continue to be an encouragement as he continues on his remarkable journey.

Sadly, I know that I am not alone and my story is not unique. Cancer has touched the lives of many, some directly and others indirectly.

I have always been exceedingly vocal and passionate when it comes to overall health and wellness. As a Colon Hydrotherapist advocating colon health is a natural extension of what I do.

This is Exodus Colon Health & Wellness second year promoting National Colorectal Cancer Awareness. This year I was enthused to take a step of faith and “kick it up a notch” as renowned Chef Emeril Lagasse would say; and in doing so, I have been so touched by everyone’s kindness and generosity.

Various local and national businesses have been so gracious in donating some incredible gifts for our raffle at our upcoming event “Kick Colorectal Cancer In the BUTT!” on March 24th & 25th.

The Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada recommends all Canadians aged 50 and over get screened. Some people have risk factors that make them more likely to develop colorectal cancer at a young age. Screening should begin earlier in these people. Screening for colorectal cancer should begin at a younger ageif:

•You have had colorectal cancer or polyps in the past

•You have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

•You have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease

•You have a hereditary colon cancer syndrome

•You eat a high fat, low fiber diet

Those at a higher risk of developing the disease, i.e. those with a family history, should speak to their doctors about special screening guidelines.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cancer of death in Canada. On average, 430 Canadians will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer, every week and 175 will die from the disease every week.

Exodus Colon Health & Wellness is sponsoring a two day event to strengthen and heighten the awareness in our local and neighbouring communities. Colorectal cancer is preventable, treatable and beatable with early detection.

Come by from 1-5 pm on both days to enjoy some refreshments and healthy snacks. Colorectal cancer awareness booklets, pamphlets and other literature will also be available.

Various local and national businesses have been gracious in donating some lovely gifts for this integral event. Come by the office to PURCHASE YOUR RAFFLE TICKETS!! Tickets will also be sold prior to event date. One ticket $ 5.00 two for $7.00. You could be a winner!! All proceeds from the event will be donated to the CCAC- Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada (non-profit)in order to help prevent Colon Cancer and support patients. Taxable donations by cheque also graciously accepted.

Welcome

About Me

Hi there, I am so delighted you made it here. My name is Elizabeth Mazzei an avid health,nutrition and fitness enthusiast! I'm a National Board Certified Colon Hydrotherapist & Certified Natural Health Practitioner. Join me as I blog about a holistic approach to health & wellness. Embrace life, it's a gift.